Lukaku Reveals Conte's Threat During Inter Stint
Romelu Lukaku opens up about a strict warning from Antonio Conte during his early days at Inter Milan, highlighting the coach's discipline.
Romelu Lukaku, now a star at Napoli, has shared a defining moment from his time at Inter Milan. In an interview with Radio Napoli, the Belgian forward recalled a striking incident during one of his first training sessions under coach Antonio Conte. Lukaku admitted to skipping a hurdle during a run, which immediately caught Conte's attention. Summoning him to his office, Conte issued a clear ultimatum: "If you do this again, you're out of the team."
This no-nonsense approach highlighted Conte's unwavering commitment to discipline and focus, setting the tone for a professional relationship that would flourish over time. Reflecting on the incident, Lukaku stated, "That moment changed everything. From then on, our relationship only grew stronger. He consistently encouraged me and helped me develop into a better player." Conte has often praised Lukaku for his unique skill set, calling him a striker perfectly suited to his tactical system.
Beyond his reflections on Conte, Lukaku spoke passionately about his current life at Napoli. He expressed gratitude for the supportive environment in Naples, both on and off the field. "Living in Naples has been wonderful for my family," he said. "The camaraderie with teammates and the love from the fans make it a special place."
Lukaku also shared his admiration for footballing legends who have inspired his career, including Didier Drogba, Ronaldo Nazário, Thierry Henry, and Nicolas Anelka. These icons, he noted, played a crucial role in shaping his playing style and mentality.
Discussing the evolution of Serie A, Lukaku highlighted how the league is becoming more competitive, drawing parallels with the English Premier League. He emphasized the recent success of Italian clubs in European competitions, calling it a testament to Serie A's growth. "The tactical superiority of Serie A teams is unmatched," Lukaku added. While acknowledging financial disparities with other leagues, he stressed that Italian clubs can compete with the best in Europe.